Mental Health Week is a timely reminder that wellbeing isn’t just a personal concern—it’s a workplace priority. As the boundaries between work and life blur more than ever, creating mentally healthy work environments is not just important—it’s essential.
At Salford Innovation Forum, we’re always looking for ways to support the wellbeing of everyone who works and visits here,” says Kayleigh, Centre Manager. “We’ve introduced engagement points throughout the building where people can take a few minutes to switch off and recharge—like our ‘Puzzle Junction’ on the second floor, where residents can stop for a quick brain teaser or collaborate on a jigsaw puzzle. We’ve also added outdoor tables recently to encourage our residents to enjoy the sunshine and take proper breaks away from their desks. Even small things like motivational posters around the space can help create a more positive, supportive environment. It’s about making wellbeing part of the everyday experience here.
The State of Mental Health at Work
From long hours to digital overload, modern work environments can easily contribute to stress and burnout. According to leading mental health organizations, employees who feel supported are more engaged, productive, and loyal. Yet despite growing awareness, mental health remains a tricky topic in many workplaces.
Why It Matters
Supporting mental wellbeing isn’t just the right thing to do—it also makes business sense. When companies foster a culture of psychological safety, open communication, and flexibility, everyone benefits. Even small changes—like encouraging breaks, offering access to mental health resources, or simply checking in regularly—can make a big difference.
What SMEs Can Do
For small and medium-sized enterprises, supporting mental health doesn’t have to involve big budgets or complex programs. Here are some practical, low-cost steps SMEs can take:
- Foster Open Conversations: Normalize talking about mental health. Encourage managers to check in with their teams regularly—not just about workloads, but about how people are feeling.
- Flexible Work Options: Where possible, offer flexible hours or remote work opportunities. Giving employees more control over their time can significantly reduce stress.
- Encourage Breaks and Boundaries: Promote a culture where taking lunch breaks, logging off on time, and using annual leave is expected and respected—not discouraged.
- Recognise and Celebrate Efforts: A simple “thank you” or public recognition can go a long way. Feeling valued boosts morale and reduces feelings of isolation or burnout.
- Provide Access to Resources: Share mental health resources, helplines, and self-care tips. Even a monthly email with supportive content can be helpful. Please feel free to use our resources at the bottom of the article.
- Create Social Moments: Team lunches, games, or casual after-work meetups can strengthen relationships and create a more supportive environment— The team at Qumulus have recently spent the day outside of the office- playing pool, sharing and meal and shaping the future for their cloud platform.
- Train Managers: Equip team leaders with basic mental health awareness so they can spot signs of stress and know how to offer support or refer employees to the right help. Please see the links below for training for the workplace.
Voices from Our Business Community
To mark Mental Health Week, we spoke with a few businesses in our building to learn what’s working for them.
Eoghan from Salford Supply Desk shared:
Q: What’s one small change your team has made that’s had a positive impact on wellbeing at work?
“Bringing mini games into the office once an extremely busy period quietens down… or going for a drink—either works.”
Chris Dabbs from Unlimited Potential told us:
Q: What advice would you give to another business looking to better support their team’s mental health?
“The most important thing is to nurture a positive culture. This means caring about each person as a person, not just as an employee. At Unlimited Potential, we always start with people’s strengths and development, and we frequently recognise their efforts and achievements. We also talk openly about mental health and wellbeing, so there’s no stigma.”
Local Resources for Mental Health Support
If you or your team need extra support, here are some trusted local and national resources:
- Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust
Offers community-based and specialist mental health services across the region.
www.gmmh.nhs.uk - Mind in Salford
Provides workplace training, advocacy, and direct support for individuals and employers.
www.mindinsalford.org.uk | 0161 710 1070 - Six Degrees Social Enterprise (Salford)
A local mental health provider supporting primary care and community-based wellbeing.
www.six-degrees.org.uk - The Hub of Hope
A national database of local mental health support. Just enter your postcode.
www.hubofhope.co.uk - ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service)
Guidance and training for employers on mental health at work.
www.acas.org.uk/equality-diversity-and-inclusion-acas-training-courses - Samaritans (24/7 support)
Call 116 123 for free at any time, or visit www.samaritans.org
Final Thoughts
Mental health isn’t a luxury—it’s a foundation. Whether you’re running a small team or a growing business, creating a supportive, open, and caring environment can lead to healthier, happier, and more resilient employees. And often, it starts with the smallest gestures.
